Chapter 7
SCENE #72 – EXT – JUNGLE FOREST, ISLAND – DAY, MORNING
In the jungle forest, the Doctor, Nyssa and Billy with Judy explore to find their way as they tread carefully on the path.
NYSSA
We’ve gone a fair way. And this hill’s getting higher and heavier every step we take.
BILLY
Can we take a rest, Doctor? I don’t wish to complain but this walking’s really hurting my feet.
DOCTOR
Hold on. I need to take my bearings. See where we are and far are we from the castle.
NYSSA
We must be on the right path. We can’t be diverting from our current track. Unless of course this path doesn’t lead to the castle as you suggest.
BILLY
Perhaps there’s crossroads. If only we had someone friendly to shout at us to point in the right way.
JUDY
Like the Scarecrow in ‘The Wizard of Oz’, you mean.
BILLY
Hardly. He had no sense of direction then.
DOCTOR
Alright, we’ll stop for a break. We’ve done half an hour.
NYSSA
Feels like two hours in my opinion, Doctor.
BILLY
Thank goodness for a rest.
Nyssa, Billy and Judy sit down on some rocks whilst the Doctor looks out to see where they’re going.
NYSSA
The trees are getting narrower here. We must be very high up.
JUDY
What had you in mind to do when you get into this castle?
DOCTOR
Find out who’s in there. Find out what trouble it brews as Nyssa and Anna saw in their premonitions during their mental link.
NYSSA
We could come across our doubles inside that castle, Doctor. They’ll probably have got there before us.
DOCTOR
I know, Nyssa. I know. But the damage can’t be undone. The only thing we can do is to salvage what remains.
JUDY
Just wanted to ask about the two of you. Nyssa and Billy. You’ve been together long?
BILLY
For as long as I can remember. Feels like centuries.
NYSSA
I’m glad to hear you say that, Billy. Even though it is relatively a short period of time.
JUDY
I’m just curious as to what makes you both tick. You seem to really like each other.
BILLY
Of course we do. Nyssa and I love each other.
DOCTOR
Aha! There it is!
NYSSA
The castle, Doctor?
DOCTOR
Yes! It’s just off bearing nor-nor-west from where we’re standing. Or rather sitting as most of us seem to be. We should head off there towards the right direction if we come to it.
NYSSA
We haven’t had a chance to full rest properly, Doctor.
Suddenly, a loud howl or roar echoes in the jungle, which stuns the Doctor, Nyssa, Billy and Judy into silence.
NYSSA
Doctor? There’s something horrible close by. I’m sure that was a wild animal.
DOCTOR
(nervously) It’s nothing to worry about Nyssa. Don’t worry. We’ll get through this. Come on. Let’s head up the hill whilst we still can.
The Doctor and group get up on their feet and make to walk up the hill. Suddenly a multitude of roars echoes close by. This causes the Doctor and friends to panic.
JUDY
Lions, tigers and bears? Oh my!
BILLY
They’re coming this way!
DOCTOR
Come on! Run!
They all run for their lives through the jungle forest up the path. Roars and growls of lions, tigers and bear grow louder as the heroes keep on running. The wild animals slowly come out of hiding to watch the party go with such relentless.
SCENE #73 – INT – BANQUETING HALL, CASTLE – DAY, MORNING
Inside the castle meanwhile, Pugsley and Snowy find themselves in the banqueting hall. They settle in with Snowy seated in a seat tending to her aches in her feet. The native sitting in his chair is bound up with ropes in a chair, with Pugsley watching him.
PUGSLEY
This is the great main throne room of the castle belonging to the ancient state of Gom. Now the name given to the tribe who dwell here.
SNOWY
Gom? Is that what he is? A Gom? Sounds like a good fitting name for him. The way he’s dressed and the way he stinks.
The Gom native struggles to break free, snarling and howling. He speaks in his guttural language to Snowy.
GOM #3
Urwge hewf hwgwy wuvhwgi hurghuw ughwigh wiyebn wguw hweo wgwigh!!!
PUGSLEY
He comes from an ancient tribe who’s lived far longer than you and your own glamorous ways, my dear. Show some more respect.
GOM #3
(hisses) Aoeu egb dngweb ueghiwgh wughw wighweu ghwigh hwugh bweg!
SNOWY
Sorry! Sorry, Dumbo! Can’t understand a word you’re saying.
PUGSLEY
No need to panic, my good friend. We’ll soon interrogate you yet, don’t worry.
SNOWY
(intrigued) What were you saying just then? About this castle being so ancient.
PUGSLEY
Oh yes! Ancient this place was. As for the people who came to this island years ago to build a new state. But they fought over each other through savagery and death. Leaving the castle unharmed and magnified. No hand has dare touched to enter these doors. Until now.
SNOWY
Until we came in.
Pugsley takes out the pearl ring from his pocket and makes his way over to the throne chair.
PUGSLEY
You see this chair here! With this pearl ring, I can do anything I wanted. Even take control of this seat by placing the ring inside it.
Pugsley places the ring inside the throne chair rather neatly. Just then, the whole room illuminates with light causing Snowy to startle. The Gom native rasps in annoyance.
PUGSLEY
Impressed, hey, my dear?
SNOWY
(gradually) Okay, so you can turn the lights on with pearl ring. What’s the big deal? Just coincidence, I guess.
PUGSLEY
Nothing is based on coincidence. This is the moment I’ve been waiting for. I feel glorified. I feel at last I can take my rightful place and be ruler of this island.
SNOWY
You? Ruler of all this! Give me a break, will you?
At that moment, Buster comes running down the stairs from the tower and calls to Pugsley and Snowy.
BUSTER
Hey! You two! Come up with me! Take a look at the view! There’s something you got to see!
Buster immediately runs back upstairs. Pugsley and Snowy look at each other in confusion before they follow.
SCENE #74 – INT – CASTLE TOWER, ISLAND – DAY, MORNING
In the castle tower, Pugsley and Snowy join Buster and look out to see.
BUSTER
(enthused) Look there, see! See where I’m pointing! That’s where the rest of our party are! Wrecked up on the shore!
PUGSLEY
(delighted) Oh, yes! Good spotting, Buster boy!
SNOWY
That doesn’t mean Judy and Mickey are still alive on that ship.
PUGSLEY
Yeah, well, have some faith, Snowy. We got to have some faith in these kinds of situations!
BUSTER
Yeah and I can find that faith for you already, Snowy. Down there. Walking up the hill.
SNOWY
I need a telescope or a pair of binoculars to see that.
BUSTER
Here! Take these! I brought them along with me!
Buster passes over to Pugsley some binoculars which he takes and looks through to see where he’s pointing. Pugsley looks and is amazed with astonishment.
PUGSLEY
Well, well, my, my. How fortunate that must be.
SNOWY
What is it?! What is it, Pugsley?! I can’t see!
Pugsley passes the binoculars to Snowy which she takes and has a look through. Once he looks, she’s equally astonished.
SNOWY
Oh, my! Well I wasn’t expecting that!
PUGSLEY
It’s good to know my deductions are faultless. Judy Garland is alive and well and seems to be making her way towards us!
SNOWY
Along with some friends she’s picked up. Where’s Mickey, I wonder.
BUSTER
You do realise those three friends of hers look like us? Exact doubles of us three?
SNOWY
I don’t see the resemblance. I find my double pretty snooty, prim and too posh for my liking.
BUSTER
I don’t much like my own double. Too soft and a weakling.
PUGSLEY
Yes, well, let’s not ponder on our own duplicates. I’m just pleased Miss Garland’s safe and well. Now all we need to do now is set on going after them and bringing her here.
SCENE #75 – EXT – PACIFIC OCEAN, NORTH AMERICA – DAY, MORNING
Out in the pacific ocean, a rescue ship journeys through the ocean in search for the missing SS Majesty and its passengers.
SCENE #76 – INT – BRIDGE, RESCUE SHIP – DAY, MORNING
On the bridge of the ship, Fred and Ginger enter to meet the commodore.
FRED
Hey there, Commodore! Hope you don’t mind us dropping in just to check how things are going on this trip.
COMMODORE
What is it you want, Mr Astaire; Miss Rogers? Something on your mind.
GINGER
We were trying wondering if you found anything yet. Any wreckage of a lost ship.
COMMODORE
We found nothing as yet. It was half an hour ago that you asked us for that and still nothing. How many more times are you come barging in here on the bridge interrupting the running of my ship.
FRED
Sorry, Commodore, we’re not trying to be imposing or anything!
GINGER
It’s just you can’t blame us for being a little rather worried for our friends.
FRED
Are you sure you know where we’re going, Commodore?
COMMODORE
(affronted) I’m the commander of my own ship. Of course I know where we’re going.
FRED
Well, I should make a double check. Around the clock observation on these shores. It’s one mighty ocean, the pacific.
GINGER
They possibly could have sunk down to the bottom. Your men could have missed that. Hadn’t you better check on that.
FRED
Oh, better still! Stop and have one or two of your men scuba-diving the ocean to find any wreckage down below.
COMMODORE
(scolds) Mr. Astaire; Miss Roger, please! Listen to me! We are travelling on the same path the SS Majesty was meant to be on her voyage from LA to Chicago. We’re working backwards as we speak. The moment we spot something we let you know. We’ll send someone down underneath the ocean to check for any wreckage or sunk ships the moment we think best and no bother. (Pause) Now, will you please return to your cabins and wait. Don’t come onto my bridge and bother me again! Keep out of my way, please!
FRED
You know I suspect you Commodore are not taking your job seriously.
COMMODORE
Not taking my job seriously?! I’ll have you know…
GINGER
It’s alright, it’s alright. We’re leaving. (to Fred) Aren’t we, Fred?
FRED
(puzzled) Are we?
GINGER
We’re bothering the Commodore. Let’s get off this bridge before we find ourselves in the brig.
FRED
Oh, alright. We’re going. See, Commodore? Us walking!
Ginger leads a disgruntled Fred away as they both leave the bridge.
SCENE #77 – INT – CORRIDOR, RESCUE SHIP – DAY, MORNING
In a corridor outside the bridge, Fred and Ginger walk away still preoccupied and worried.
FRED
I don’t get it. How come we haven’t met with a single bit of debris and wreckage?! They can’t have disappeared off the face of the Earth.
GINGER
Be optimistic, Fred. We don’t know if they have sunk to the bottom. They could have shipwrecked.
FRED
Where? There are no islands to be found in this neck of the woods.
GINGER
Are you sure about that, Fred?
FRED
Oh come on. All that’s kid’s stuff. Judy and Mickey wouldn’t be shipwrecked on an island close to L.A. and Chicago.
GINGER
There’s always a possibility. They could have gone far out in the pacific ocean.
FRED
Well, perhaps you’re right. I just hope they’re alive somewhere. Even shipwrecked on an island and still alive would sound idyllic.
GINGER
Well, these rescue ships can do wonders on these occasions. They do thorough checks. They take their business seriously in the recovering of lost ships.
FRED
Like the Titanic.
GINGER
(ruefully) Anyway. You know how the old saying goes.
FRED
What old saying?
GINGER
(sing-song) Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, start all over again!
FRED
(laughs) That’s a good one we did. In that movie ‘Swing Time’, wasn’t it?
GINGER
How did it go again?!
Fred begins singing the lyrics with Ginger joining in, as they sing the song ‘Pick Yourself Up’ from their movie ‘Swing Time’.*(Song #8)
GINGER
(laughs) It’s best to be optimistic on these occasions. At least we cheer ourselves up.
The two laugh until they hear a shout coming from the bridge.
PETTY OFFICER
Land ho! Land Ho!
GINGER
(astonished) What does that mean then? Land ho?
FRED
I’ve no idea. But it sounds good, don’t you think?!
They get onto their feet and go to look and see outside.
SCENE #78 – EXT – HILLTOP, JUNGLE FOREST – DAY, MORNING
Back on the island, the Doctor, Nyssa, Billy and Judy have been running for a fair while until they’ve reached the top of a hill. They pant for breath after running for so long.
NYSSA
(exhausted) I think… we’ve managed to outrun… the lions, tigers and bears.
JUDY
(exhausted) Well, that’s a relief. I never thought I would be able to run as fast as that and sing at the same time.
BILLY
You have so much energy…to perform some many songs for movies.
JUDY
Oh, you got to when it comes to working with MGM. The executives that work expect no excuses or mistakes.
DOCTOR
Yes, well, we’ve got out of that neck of the woods literally. Let’s hope they won’t be any more lions, tigers and bears to spring across.
NYSSA
And the castle is in plain sight before us! Look!
They all look to spot the castle ahead.
DOCTOR
You’re right, Nyssa. And good that it’s not so far away as it seems from here.
JUDY
It looks magnificent!
BILLY
I couldn’t agree more. Do the natives of this island really live there?
DOCTOR
Who knows who lives there, Billy? The natives might not care to know about the castle at all and simply prefer to live in their village.
NYSSA
Then why haven’t they tried to scourge the place and tear it down. The stonework seems aged but it’s in good condition.
DOCTOR
That’s a very good question, Nyssa. One we may ask the natives hopefully.
JUDY
So long as they don’t have any lions, tigers and bears for their pets.
DOCTOR
That’s hardly likely I think, Judy.
BILLY
Doctor? Look! Down there! In that valley!
They all look down in astonishment and shock to see what’s down below.
NYSSA
More lions, tigers and bears. Lots more. They’re all dwelling together in that valley.
DOCTOR
Some are fighting each other. Some simply dwell in their own space.
JUDY
How come there’s so many wild animals of variety in one place. What can they all be doing in there?! What’s the purpose for them to be together in one big group?!
DOCTOR
Judy, you’re asking all the right questions today!
BILLY
It’s incredible! I’ve never seen so many of them! Makes me scared looking at them!
NYSSA
There’s something powerful about this island! We need to find out what power it is and what use is it for?!
DOCTOR
And whether the ‘wrong hands’ can easily get their hands on it. (Pause) Let’s make for that castle, shall we? Tread carefully.
The Doctor leads the way with Nyssa, Billy and Judy following behind them. They make their way to the castle on the footpath.
SCENE #79 – INT – DINING ROOM, S.S. MAJESTY – DAY, MORNING
Back on the SS Majesty, everybody laughs as Mickey entertains them after finishing a song. They clap their hands as he takes a bow.
MICKEY
Thank you folks. Gee it’s swell to be entertaining you all despite the mishaps of this cruise. Now I’m going to need some help up here for a little routine I have in mind in order to make you laughing. Now who’s going to help me?! Raise your hands! I want to see them!
Everybody raise their hands, including Betsey who cries out.
BETSEY
Pick me, pick me, pick me!
MICKEY
Alright, Betsey isn’t it?
BETSEY
Betsey, yeah!!!
MICKEY
Then come up out here and give me a hand, will you?
Betsey makes her way up to the stage with Mickey filled with giddy excitement.
ROGER
(low voice) This should be good.
ARTHUR
I don’t think I can watch this.
Betsey is on stage with Mickey as he begins to do his act.
MICKEY
Now Betsey! Just to start off with a few good clean questions. And if you don’t give me a few good clean answers, you’re off!
Everyone laughs, including Betsey.
BETSEY
Alright Mickey! Ask away.
MICKEY
Now are you ready for this?
BETSEY
Yes.
MICKEY
Are you sure you’re not made of metal?
BETSEY
Made of metal?
MICKEY
Yes, because I kinda am magnetic, so I can easily get attracted to you…
Mickey does a gesture placing his hand on Betsey’s shoulder before trying to take it off again. Betsey laughs.
MICKEY
Now I don’t want you to think I’m getting personal here…
Mickey does it again and everyone laughs, including Betsey.
MICKEY
But my hand just can’t help it when it comes into contact with something it attracts…
Mickey does it again; everyone laughs.
MICKEY
So hence why I asked you the question…
Again Mickey does it with everyone laughing.
MICKEY
Are you sure you’re not made of metal?
Mickey does it again, and uproars of laughter ensue.
BETSEY
Oh, Mr. Mickey Rooney. If you find myself attracted to me, you’re more than welcome.
MICKEY
(comically) Well, don’t mind if I do…
Mickey does it one last time, and everyone laughs including Betsey.
BETSEY
Oh, this is such great fun! I’m having such a fun time! (to Roger; Arthur) Isn’t this fun, Roger, Arthur?
ROGER
(duly) Yes. Very fun, isn’t it, Roger?
ARTHUR
(duly) Very fun indeed.
MICKEY
(continues) Now I have a news report to give to the world and I want you Betsey to help me out on this…
Suddenly the ship shudders and rocks slightly, causing everyone to startle. There is a tense moment of silence.
ROGER
(anxiously) What was all that about?! Where did that just come from?
ARTHUR
(anxiously) I don’t know. But it sure was rocky!
ALONZO
(calls) Look! Out there! In the ocean! There’s a ship approaching! A ship, don’t you see?
BETSEY
He’s right! Look there’s a ship! Coming towards us! Must be a rescue party!
Everyone goes to the window to take a look outside. They see the rescue ship coming towards them from the ocean.
MICKEY
(hopeful) Hey you’re right. A mighty ship coming to our rescue. How lucky is that?
BETSEY
We’re going to be saved! We’re going to be saved!
ROGER
That’s a stroke of luck, isn’t it?
MICKEY
Alright everyone! Get yourselves ready! We’re about to…
The ship judders again, causing everyone to go in silence. Moment of tension.
ARTHUR
It’s happened again! That rocking!
BETSEY
Why is the ship suddenly rocking?!
The ship rocks again, more violently this time.
ANNA
Something! Something’s come in from the shore. Something is pushing us out.
ROGER
The tide! The tide’s coming in. We’re going to be swept away back into the sea!
ALONZO
We won’t survive in here much longer!
MICKEY
Come on, everyone! Get off the ship! Abandon ship like the Captain would say! Everyone get off board!
ARTHUR
What about Mr. Whiteman and the injured?
MICKEY
(shouts) Get everybody off board this ship as quickly as possible! Come on now! We ain’t got a moment to lose!
Mickey and everyone else makes to get off the ship as they leave the dining room.
SCENE #80 – EXT – BEACH, ISLAND – DAY, MORNING
On the beach, everybody has managed to get off board the ship. Mickey leads everyone as they run for their lives onto the beach before the tide gets them.
MICKEY
Run, everybody, run! Don’t lag behind! The tide is coming in very quick! We don’t want to get sucked in before we know it, do we?
BETSEY
Look Mickey, look! The ship’s being pulled in!
ROGER
It’s gone into the ocean!
They look and see the ship pulled in back into the sea and starting to drift away from the island. Everybody gasps in shock before becoming disgruntled and dismayed.
ALONZO
The SS Majesty! It’s drifted away from us!
ANNA
We’ll never get it back now! We’re marooned here! Marooned!
MICKEY
(reassuringly) Hey, hang on! There’s that rescue ship, remember! It’s coming our way! We just got to get onto a firmer patch of ground and call out to them!
ARTHUR
This sand’s real damp.
MICKEY
Yes! Hence why we got to keep moving before the tide comes in! Now come on! (shouts; to everyone) Come on, everybody! Come on! Run like the wind!
Mickey and the rest of the passengers run for it up the beach before the tide comes in closer and closer on shore.
SCENE #81 – INT – BANQUETING HALL, CASTLE – DAY, MORNING
In the banqueting hall of the castle, Pugsley, Snowy and Buster are interrogating the Gom native. Things don’t go very well, as the Gom native is difficult and resistant to the three criminals’ questioning.
GOM #3
Naiwr fwuf wfwg fgwg wgwgw! Gege! Wgwegew! Iuywvbej! ghehjjdet wghoiun whreth! Polwnbe! Mogwgwehh! Mogwegh!
SNOWY
This is pointless! We’re not getting away with this guy! He’s just refusing to answer our questions we give him!
BUSTER
Well, it can’t be helped, can it? Since he talks gibberish and we’re talking English here.
SNOWY
Ha, ha, ha! Very clever, smart alec!
PUGSLEY
The Gom language is in a very guttural tongue. Too difficult to translate in an understandable tone as we have.
SNOWY
And too much time that we don’t have.
PUGSLEY
Perhaps it would be best if we spoke to him in a different form of language.
BUSTER
How? What kind of language?
PUGSLEY
Well, let me see! Let’s try out something!
Pugsley takes out of his pocket a notebook and opens it to turn towards a page. He takes out a pencil from another pocket and begins to draw on it.
SNOWY
What do you think you’re doing?
PUGSLEY
Drawing a picture.
BUSTER
And what kind of picture would that be, hey?
PUGSLEY
Something I think our friend here would recognise.
Pugsley finishes drawing a picture and tears the page out from his notebook. He shows the paper to the Gom native.
PUGSLEY
Now then. Do you understand that? Know what that means do you?
The Gom looks at the picture for a moment. He recognises it in an instant.
GOM #3
Eugegh! Weue wegwghwi! Fi! Fi! FI! Egheheh Weg! FI! FI!
BUSTER
(realises) Fi! I think he’s trying to say…
SNOWY
Fire?! Is that what you’re trying to say? Fire?
Gom #3 makes gestures and noises to indicate he’s saying fire. Pugsley shows them the picture of fire.
PUGSLEY
That’s what I’ve drawn here. Something these savages would recognise. The flames of a fire burning in the night.
SNOWY
Wow! That’s clever, Pugsley!
PUGSLEY
I know I am.
BUSTER
So, we have to talk to them via pictures.
SNOWY
We’re going to need a lot of paper.
PUGSLEY
Then it’s just as well I have four notebooks with me.
SNOWY
Four?! You think four will be enough!
PUGSLEY
It’s obviously worth trying.
SNOWY
Better you than me. I can’t even write my address on an envelope to a letter I send!
PUGSLEY
I hope you haven’t been telling people about our special operations.
SNOWY
Just writing to my mother, don’t worry.
Meanwhile, Buster looks out of the window.
BUSTER
Hey, guys! Look outside! We’ve got visitors!
Snowy and Pugsley join Buster as they look to see the Doctor, Nyssa and Billy with Judy making their way towards the castle.
PUGSLEY
Well, well, well, this is a turn up for the books.
SNOWY
I can’t believe it! They’re making this way! With Judy Garland!
PUGSLEY
And that’s precisely the opportunity we need. To capture Judy Garland at the right moment. (to Snowy; Buster) I assume you two have familiarised with the layout of this castle.
BUSTER
(puzzled) Familiarised? We haven’t even started looking in the kitchens!
PUGSLEY
Very well. I’ll give you an outline map of the castle. This is what you need to do. I’ll tell you how to capture Judy Garland at the precise moment.
SNOWY
And what shall you be doing? Lazing around here while me and Buster boy do all the hard work here.
PUGSLEY
Certainly not! I have pictures to draw!
BUSTER
Pictures?
PUGSLEY
For our dear Gom friend seated before us!
They look to the Gom native, who growls hungrily and viciously.
SCENE #82 – EXT – JUNGLE FOREST, ISLAND – DAY, MORNING
On the path to the castle, the Doctor, Nyssa and Billy with Judy Garland walk in the jungle forest and see the castle in their sights.
DOCTOR
There it is! The castle at the centre of the island. Right before us.
NYSSA
It doesn’t seem so far away now.
DOCTOR
I should think not. It’s only about a mile and a half away from where we are.
JUDY
Well, mile and half or no mile and half, I’m not moving from this spot until I get some rest. I don’t wish to complain but I’m not really in clothes fit for hiking.
BILLY
At least we’re wearing shirts and not pullovers over them.
DOCTOR
Alright then. Let’s rest for a while before we set off. Hopefully no tigers, lions and bears are following us.
The four heroes sit down on a rock and look at the castle ahead while they get some rest.
NYSSA
Doctor? That castle ahead is already open. Somebody’s got inside.
DOCTOR
Ah! Why doesn’t that surprise me?
BILLY
Our doppelganger friends, Doctor?
DOCTOR
Most likely.
JUDY
What would they want to come to an island like this for? And why steal something for it or kidnap me and Mickey? Usually criminals deal with thefts back at home in the states. Why come all the way here?
DOCTOR
(puzzled) I’m not sure really. Perhaps it’s something to do with that power I mentioned with the lions, tigers and bears in that valley.
NYSSA
I wonder if it’s something psychic. Something telepathic or empathic is controlling these wild animals somehow.
BILLY
That would be ridiculous, Nyssa.
NYSSA
Nothing psychic is ridiculous, Billy. It’s possible for humans to develop that kind of ability as well as alien.
DOCTOR
Very true, Nyssa. But I wouldn’t extend the powers to a greater degree that far. The power I mentioned could be more technological or artificial in controlling these animals.
BILLY
Or perhaps the wild animals are in that valley out of free will. Perhaps they rule this island as much as its natives.
DOCTOR
Really, Billy. I didn’t think you would come up with a suggestion such as that.
NYSSA
I actually think Billy’s suggestion’s pretty valid. Why shouldn’t wild animals have minds of their own and work together They are living beings like you and me.
JUDY
You three have a strange way of talking. Is this really what you do where you come from? In the future?
DOCTOR
(gradually) Sometimes, yes.
NYSSA
There’s nothing to worry about, Judy. We’re only making these assumptions out of pure context. Nothing’s definite.
JUDY
I’m sure you know what you’re talking about. I’ll just let you get on with it.
DOCTOR
But it’s all very worrying. Not being able to have all the definite answers.
Just then, there’s a loud lion roar behind them. All four become afraid.
NYSSA
Doctor! That was…
BILLY
I thought you said we were far from the lions, tigers and bears from that valley.
DOCTOR
Seems my assumption was wrong entirely. Unless of course, one lion managed to spot us and hunt us.
JUDY
Let’s get outta here before…
Judy then screams as a lion appears out from the bushes. All four are terrified as the lion growls before them.
DOCTOR
Don’t move!
All four remain still, as the lion slowly makes its advance.
NYSSA
Doctor? What are we going to do?
DOCTOR
Now just let’s take easy. Stand back slowly.
They stand back slowly as they can, before the lion advances a little quickly and they stop.
JUDY
It’s no good! That lion will gobble us the moment we make any sudden move!
BILLY
Oh please, Judy. Don’t use words like ‘gobble’ in a time like this.
JUDY
Well, where else would you expect me to say it?
DOCTOR
Hold on. I think I might be able to distract it!
The Doctor bends down and picks up a long stick and stands forward aiming it directly at the lion. The lion growls as the Doctor confront him with the stick.
NYSSA
Doctor, what are you doing?
DOCTOR
Now try not to panic, you three! I’m making to challenge and distract the lion! When I say run, you three run up to the castle!
NYSSA
(protests) We can’t just leave you here, Doctor!
BILLY
(protests) Yeah, that lion will tear you to shreds!
DOCTOR
You two do as I say! And take Judy with you! I’ll follow you as soon as I can.
JUDY
The Doctor’s right. He’s giving us a chance. Let’s take it while we may.
BILLY
(reluctantly) Alright! But you be careful, Doctor. Don’t lag on behind!
DOCTOR
I won’t Billy, I won’t. Now go! Go now!
NYSSA
Follow us, Doctor! Follow us…
DOCTOR
I will! Now go! Don’t look back, just run!
NYSSA
Come on, Billy, Judy! To the castle we go!
Nyssa, Billy and Judy run for it as they make their ways towards the castle up the hill. The Doctor remains behind to challenge the lion, as it growls ferociously.
DOCTOR
Now, haven’t you got nice teeth, you big furry lion?
The lion roars angrily.
DOCTOR
Now, now. I’m going to give you a sporting chance. Now my friends are on their way to the castle. Once they’re a fair way from here, I’m going to let you chase me. And believe me I’m a good sprinter when it comes to my cricketing.
The lions roars, whilst the Doctor still aims his stick to the lion. It tries to advance forward but the Doctor holds him back.
DOCTOR
You know you’re not giving me a fair chance. And my blood is too strong for you to digest. You wouldn’t find my Time Lord blood very appetising anyway.
The two are still in a deadly lock and combat as the lion growls at the Doctor with him aiming his stick at him.
DOCTOR
Now. My friends are just a mile away from where I’m standing. So in a minute, I’m going to sprinting on my own two feet.
The Doctor aims his stick to warn the lion off, as the lion impatiently growls.
DOCTOR
Steady. Steady.
Moment of tension.
DOCTOR
(chirpily) Sorry, can’t stop! Catch me if you can!
The Doctor throws the stick at the lion’s face and runs for it up the hill towards the castle. The lion, angry with stick thrown in his face, chases after the Doctor on all fours.
SCENE #83 – INT – ENTRANCE, CASTLE – DAY, MORNING
Nyssa, Billy and Judy arrive and enter inside the castle. They pant out of breath, feeling exhausted once they’re inside.
BILLY
We’re in! Thank goodness for that!
JUDY
I sure hope the Doctor will make it! Just hope MGM don’t catch him first.
NYSSA
(puzzled) MGM?
BILLY
Judy means the lion, Nyssa.
NYSSA
We have to keep these doors open in order for the Doctor to get inside. Oh goodness! We then have to find a way to shut these doors.
BILLY
And how exactly are we going to do that?
Suddenly the doors swing shut. All three are aghast.
JUDY
How did it do that?! Why did the doors suddenly shut?!
NYSSA
(anxiously) Quick! Get these doors open!
The three attempt to force the doors open from inside. They struggle but can’t get them open.
BILLY
It’s no good. These doors are tight shut! They won’t force open!
JUDY
(panics) This is terrible! And the Doctor’s out there!
NYSSA
(calls) Doctor?! Doctor, are you out there?! Doctor?!
BILLY
Oh, it probably isn’t working. These doors are sound proof!
JUDY
Or he could be torn to shreds!
NYSSA
Judy, please. Don’t say such things! (calls) Doctor?! Doctor, are you out there?!
Nyssa, Billy and Judy keep tugging at the door, trying to get it open.
SCENE #84 – EXT – ENTRANCE, CASTLE – DAY, MORNING
Outside, the Doctor arrives at the castle entrance doors but is surprised to find the doors already shut. He tries to get them open.
DOCTOR
Locked?! Locked?! What do they think they’re playing at?!
NYSSA
(calls; from inside) Doctor?! Doctor, can you hear me out there?! Doctor?! Doctor?!
DOCTOR
(cries) Nyssa! Nyssa, I can hear you! What’s happening?!
NYSSA
(calls; from inside) The doors just closed as soon as we got in! We don’t know how or why but they just did. We can’t seem to get them open!
DOCTOR
Don’t worry, Nyssa. I’ll think of something. I’ll get inside somehow.
Just then, there’s a loud roar, and the Doctor turns to see the lion charging up towards him.
DOCTOR
Oh! Oh dear!
NYSSA
(from inside) What is it? The lion?!
DOCTOR
Yes, I’m afraid so. It’s approaching me!
NYSSA
(calls; from inside) Doctor, you’ve got to get out there! Run for it! Don’t worry about us!
Moment of tension, as the Doctor’s undecided and the lion’s on his way to meet him.
DOCTOR
Wait a minute! There’s a window up above the castle walls! Perhaps if I can climb my way up towards it…
NYSSA
(interrupts; from inside) Doctor, don’t! You’ll injury yourself! Don’t risk your life for the lion! Just get out of there!
BILLY
(calls; from inside) Yeah, Doctor, do as Nyssa says! Get out of there!
DOCTOR
Wait a second! I can manage it! I can climb the wall like so!
NYSSA
(calls; from inside) Doctor, don’t!
The Doctor tries to climb and scale up the wall, just before the lion nearly arrives and makes to leap for him. The Doctor cries as he immediately climbs up as quick as he can before the lion gets him.
NYSSA
(calls; from inside) Doctor?! Doctor, are you alright? Doctor? Doctor, answer me please!
DOCTOR
(reassuringly) It’s alright, Nyssa, I’m fine! The lion hasn’t got me! I managed to escape its teeth!
NYSSA
(relieved; from inside) Oh, thank goodness for that!
BILLY
(calls; from inside) What are you now, Doctor?
DOCTOR
I’m scaling up the wall as we speak. I’m climbing up my way up to the next level to reach the window. There’s a balcony. I think I can manage to open it! I’m pretty good climber, you know. With my athletic prowess.
JUDY
(calls; from inside) Well, you just be careful, Doctor. Don’t break your neck! We don’t want to lose you on a wall next to a lion.
DOCTOR
Thank, Judy. I’ll try and be careful. I’ve had plenty of experience in these things. Climbing up walls and such.
BILLY
(calls; from inside) Really, Doctor?
DOCTOR
Well, more or less. I’ll get inside and meet you in the castle, I promise. Just don’t hang about waiting. Try and reach the next level if you can. I’ll meet you there.
NYSSA
(calls; from inside) Alright, Doctor. You be careful now.
DOCTOR
I will.
The lion growls from below.
DOCTOR
(to lion) Goodbye, dear chap. Sorry I wasn’t able to give you your meal, but I’m fairly past my cell by date.
The Doctor continues climbing up the castle walls, whilst the lion growls angrily up at him.
SCENE #85 – INT – ENTRANCE, CASTLE – DAY, MORNING
Inside the castle, Nyssa, Billy and Judy turn away from the shut doors with lion growling and roaring from outside.
BILLY
(cheerily) Well, we better do as we says, hadn’t we? Let’s try and reach the next floor.
NYSSA
I’m really worried about him, Billy. I’m anxious he’ll fall off and injure himself…
BILLY
(reassuringly) Don’t worry, Nyssa dear. He’ll find a way in. He said he’s done this sort of thing before. Climbing walls.
NYSSA
Yes. That’s what’s worrying me. His confidence failing him.
JUDY
(reassuringly) Don’t worry about him, Nyssa. He said he’ll meet us on the next level. So, let’s go, find and hope he’s there.
BILLY
Yeah come on, Nyssa. The Doctor’s safe for now.
NYSSA
(gradually) Alright then. Let’s see if we can find a staircase.
BILLY
That’s it. Explore the castle and find the Doctor. That’s the way. Come on.
The trio head off deeper into the castle and begin to explore finding a staircase.
JUDY
(curious) I wonder who it was that locked us in with those front doors shutting on us.
* See Appendix: Song Lyrics*
© Tim Bradley, 2025-26
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